Tuna, Vietnam Yellowfin
Yellowfin tuna is a species of tuna found in waters
of tropical and subtropical oceans worldwide.
The yellowfin tuna is one of the largest tuna
species, reaching weights of over 300 pounds but is significantly
smaller than the Atlantic and Pacific bluefin tunas that can reach over
1,000 pounds and slightly smaller than the bigeye tuna and the southern
bluefin tuna.
The second dorsal fin as well as the finlets
between those fins and the tail, are bright yellow, giving this fish its
common name.
Although mainly found in deep offshore waters,
yellowfin tuna may approach shore when suitable conditions exist.
Mid-ocean islands in the Western Pacific, Caribbean and Maldives islands
Indian Ocean, as well as the volcanic islands of the Atlantic such as
Ascension Island often harbor yellowfin feeding on the baitfish these
spots concentrate close to the shoreline. Yellowfin may venture well
inshore of the continental shelf when water temperature and clarity are
suitable and food is abundant.
Yellowfin tuna often travel in schools with
similarly sized companions. They sometimes school with other tuna
species and mixed schools of small yellowfin and skipjack tuna, in
particular, are commonplace. They are often associated with various
species of dolphins or porpoises, as well as with larger marine
creatures such as whales and whale sharks.
Yellowfin tuna prey include other fish, pelagic
crustaceans, and squid. Like all tunas their body shape is evolved for
speed, enabling them to pursue and capture fast-moving baitfish such as
flying fish, saury and mackerel.
Yellowfin tuna is widely used in raw fish dishes,
especially sashimi. This fish is also excellent for grilling. Yellowfin
is often served seared rare.
Yellowfin buyers recognize two grades, "sashimi
grade" and "other", although there are variations in the quality of
"other" grades.
Yellowfin is becoming a popular replacement for the
severely depleted supplies of southern bluefin tuna.
